Biking through Storms

Chris on the Bike
Elkridge, MD
January 31, 2021

With all of the political activity in the country during this past year, I had forgotten how therapeutic it is to write about the weather.

The weather just is and there is nothing we can do about it except prepare and cope. 

Weather is the wildcard in our lives. Plans change with the weather. We are currently ending one pair of Winter storms and preparing for the coming weekend onslaught of snow and ice.

What has been different this year is that despite the COVID-19 closures, and the weather Chris and I can visit other places from the safety of our own home and workout. Chris is currently biking through Montana while I am biking through Patagonia, Argentina. 

No matter the weather outside, we are able to raise out heart rates into the training zone and get a good cardio workout. 

We should be ready for the springtime, no problem!

Biking through the storms is the best.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - February 1, 2020

 

1. It is Monday, February 1st. Obviously it is the first Monday in February and the 5th Monday of 2021. There are 47 weeks remaining in the year.

As the Storm Began
Elkridge, MD
January 31, 2021

2. We received about 3 inches of snowfall. Not nearly as much as forecast, but enough so that I used the snow thrower twice and helped a number of neighbors get clear. 

3. It was a weird Sunday without football. Next week: The Super Bowl. Let me put it out there right now. Like last year: Go Kansas City!

4. Thinking of warmer climates? I know that I am. I am not a fan of snow and cold. 

About Sunset as the Storm Continued
Elkridge, MD
January 31, 2021

5. As it turned out I did not watch the Farmers Insurance Open yesterday. I was busy with other things including using my show thrower.

6. Orioles pitchers and catchers are supposed to report to Spring Training in 15 days, but MLB may delay the start of the season and Spring Training.

7. The hard reality of a snow day and virtual learning was evident this morning. The kids attending public school were still scheduled to receive virtual instruction despite the freezing rain when most all of the private schools were closed. 

8. Today in History. February 1, 1884: The first portion, or fascicle, of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), considered the most comprehensive and accurate dictionary of the English language, is published. Today, the OED is the definitive authority on the meaning, pronunciation and history of over half a million English words, past and present

Not Yet Desperate, Japan and South Korea Plod Toward Vaccinations - The New York Times

Russia Protesters Defy Show of Force as Signs of Kremlin Anxiety Mount - The New York Times

Exxon, Chevron CEOs Discussed Merger - The Wall Street Journal

Jan. 6 Rally Funded by Trump Donor, Helped by Alex Jones - The Wall Street Journal

Trump’s legal team exits as he urges defense to focus on false election claims - The Washington Post

Experts urge faster vaccinations and efforts to curb spread in response to virus variants - The Washington Post

Wall Street gears up for another Reddit traders bout - Reuters

Shell targets power trading and hydrogen in climate drive - Reuters

Ronald Reagan Quote for the Week

We honor the giants of our history not by going back but forward to the dreams their vision foresaw. My fellow citizens, this nation is poised for greatness. The time has come to proceed toward a great new challenge -- a second American Revolution of hope and opportunity; a revolution carrying us to new heights of progress by pushing back frontiers of knowledge and space; a revolution of spirit that taps the soul of America, enabling us to summon greater strength than we've ever known; and a revolution that carries beyond our shores the golden promise of human freedom in a world of peace.

Address Before a Joint Session of the Congress on the State of the Union - February 6, 1985

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

The Storm Inches Closer

I am waiting on the snow. I expected to awaken this morning to a marshmallow world of white covering everything. But not. 

One weather forecaster likened waiting for the coming storm to watching a pot of water boil. Other on-scene weather reporters suggested they were all dressed with no where to go.

I have an interesting ritual associated with getting ready for a storm. Remember, we have not had a storm of this magnitude since 2016! In fact, we will be getting more snow during this storm than we have during the last three years combined.

Yesterday I conducted an operations check on the snow thrower--fortunately, it was ready. I had prepared it during December and was confident that it would start and run. But, I checked it and topped off the gas tank.

There was an obligatory trip to the grocery store, mostly for vegetables. 

I made sure that both vehicles have full gas tanks--the extra weight improves traction in the snow while ensuring that a trip to refuel will not be required.

Extra wood was brought into the garage to ensure that the fireplace will be able to provide additional warming heat continuously. 

I believe that Chris and I are as ready as possible. Our neighbors are also happy that the snow thrower is fully ready to tackle the storm. If the forecast is correct, we may actually be snowed in for a day or two until the county can get the street cleared. Our street is definitely a side street and therefore on the bottom of those to be cleared and made passable. Fortunately, I believe my truck has enough clearance to handle 12 inches of snow--time will tell. 

So I am sitting here waiting for the snow. I don't know why, exactly, but probably because there is no football on TV today. Perhaps I will watch the Farmers Insurance Open from Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California. At least I will feel warm, although yesterday it was cool there as the golfers were all in jackets.

OMG, Chris just saw a snow flake and did a dance!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

The Calm Before . . .

 A storm brewing.

24 Hour Weather Forecast

A Nor'easter potentially laying its bullseye right atop the Baltimore-Washington region.

Actually we are looking at two storms--one Sunday to Monday and then another. The scary part, there are no projections yet for the Monday to Tuesday storm which could be developing into the Nor'easter.

Chris reported that Costco was packed with shoppers loading up on supplies yesterday win advance of the storms. 

This morning, however, as I look outside it is calm. The sunrise portends a fine day. I am not excited at all about the prospect of multiple inches of snow. 

From the WBAL TV weather crew, as of this morning here is the forecast:

Chief Meteorologist Tom Tasselmyer said it's going to be a tricky forecast because the West Coast storm will have to move across the country, transfer energy to the coast, and another storm will have to form and track over Maryland to bring snow.

Meteorologist Ava Marie says snow will begin to develop some time after 6 a.m. Sunday, accumulating to as much as 3 to 6 inches by Monday morning -- and that's just part one.

Ava said there will be a mixing of sleet and rain, especially to the south of Baltimore, starting Sunday night into Monday.

Part two comes with more snow -- and ice -- possible Monday into Tuesday morning, with locations and amounts to be determined.

I highlighted the potentially frightening part of the forecast. They do not have a clue!

It will be like days before satellites and weather forecasts--we will just have to see what comes our way. this will be fun.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Comfort Food

Roast Beef Dinner
Elkridge, MD
January 28, 2021

Last evening's dinner was comfort food all the way. 

We try to have a no cook Thursday which means that we call a restaurant and order dinner for pick-up. Due to COVID-19 we do not actually eat-out.

Yesterday Chris decided to try something different. She pulled out the slow cooker and made a roast beef dinner. Comfort food! 

I enjoyed the warm smells of the food in the cooker when I came through the door at the end of the day. The dark red wine was, of course, the star of the show perfectly highlighting the flavors of the beef and roasted vegetables.

A mid-Winter's feast!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

The Darkness is Passing

 

Looking Up the Street at 5:21 PM
Elkridge, MD
January 27, 2021

I noticed it last evening. 

The darkness is not falling until later in the day. 

Makayla needed to go out about 5:30 PM and I noticed that it was still light. It is funny how it happens by a few minutes each day and so it is hardly noticeable until, suddenly, I realize that sunset is becoming later each day. 

As it turned out I snapped this image exactly at sunset, 5:21 PM last evening after 10 hours and 4 minutes of daylight. Just by way of example, just one month ago sunset in Baltimore was at 4:50 PM after 9 hours and 25 minutes of daylight. 

Daylight is returning. 

In one short month, we will be basking in 11 hours and 15 minutes of daylight per day with sunset at 5:57 PM.

I need to locate my golf clubs and racquetball racket. 

I love watching the progression of the days from day to light!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Week One - Done

It was only a week ago that President Biden was sworn-in, but I feel that the mood in the country is already improving. 

Civility has returned to the White House. Despite the efforts of the right-wing disinformation machine, progress is being made and America is reengaging with the world and tits Allies. No, it is not Pax Americana, but the tone and tenor of communications from the highest office in the land is reasoned and inclusive.

The COVID-19 battle is underway with a strategy and competent leadership to fill the void left by the previous administration. After only a week it is hard to point to much progress, but positive things should begin happening soon as the new policies and plans begin to take effect.

NBC News published a comprehensive list of the executive actions already taken by the administration in its first seven days on the job. 

I have seen that some have made the news for the problems that they may cause, but some of those focusing on problems are ignoring the larger body of good being dome--the problems can be corrected within the context of the broader positives of the actions. 

Week One is done. I remain encouraged.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Snow and Ice

 

After the Overnight Dusting of Snow
Elkridge, MD
January 26, 2021

Winter made its second appearance of the season overnight. The region actually received a dusting of snow and an ice storm is expected as the day progresses. 

I guess I needed a reminder that it is Winter because January has been pleasant and mild. 

The build-up that the news media gave to the storm was truly astonishing. It is almost as if there were no other stories worthy of coverage. I am expecting that the areas North and West of my town received a good deal more snow and ice--but as of 5:30 AM this morning, we have apparently escaped the fury of the storm. 

I admit, I have mixed emotions about escaping the storm. I have a snow thrower ready to tackle the dreaded white stuff, but is definitely ready for some use. But, it will remain at the ready. In my mind it is better to be prepared and not need to bring in the heavy equipment than it is to not be prepared at and snowed under.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday Musings - January 25, 2021

 

1. It is hard to comprehend, but this is the fourth and final Monday of January 2021. The first month of the new year is nearly complete and the year does not feel so "new" anymore.

2. Kansas City will meet New England (err, Tampa Bay, I mean) in Super Bowl LV in two weeks. It just seems so normal for Brady to be a Super Bowl quarterback. The NFL Season is actually going to end on time despite COVID-19.

3. Despite the lack of travel, I remain thankful for my workout cycle. I have been cycling in Patagonia, Argentina this week.

4. January has been relatively mild so far, but that is likely to change in the coming week as sleet, rain, ice, and snow make their way into the region. 

5. I miss looking out the back window at palm trees.

6. I realized that because of COVID-19, I only wrote two Out the Hotel Window entries last year.

7. I smoked some chicken last evening to eat while watching Kansas City defeat Buffalo. It was a good game and I enjoyed the outcome. For those unaware, during my youth growing up in Central New York I was a fervent Kansas City fan! I distinctly remember the stinging taste of defeat as Miami defeated Kansas City in the longest NFL game ever played on Christmas Day 1971.

8. Today in History. On January 25, 1905, at the Premier Mine in Pretoria, South Africa, a 3,106-carat diamond is discovered during a routine inspection by the mine’s superintendent. Weighing 1.33 pounds, and christened the “Cullinan,” it was the largest diamond ever found.

Frederick Wells was 18 feet below the earth’s surface when he spotted a flash of starlight embedded in the wall just above him. His discovery was presented that same afternoon to Sir Thomas Cullinan, who owned the mine. Cullinan then sold the diamond to the Transvaal provincial government, which presented the stone to Britain’s King Edward VII as a birthday gift. Worried that the diamond might be stolen in transit from Africa to London, Edward arranged to send a phony diamond aboard a steamer ship loaded with detectives as a diversionary tactic. While the decoy slowly made its way from Africa on the ship, the Cullinan was sent to England in a plain box.

How West Virginia Became a U.S. Leader in Vaccine RolloutHow West Virginia Became a U.S. Leader in Vaccine Rollout - The New York Times

Is Space the Next ‘Great Power’ Contest Between the U.S. and China? - The New York Times

For Wars of the Future, Pentagon Looks to Distant Past: the B-52 - The Wall Street Journal

Biden to Lift Restrictions on Transgender Military Service Members - The Wall Street Journal

Trump made 30,573 false or misleading claims as president. Nearly half came in his final year. - The Washington Post

Pandemic aftershocks overwhelm global supply lines, threatening higher prices for consumers - The Washington Post

Australians Can’t Get Home, but Tennis Players Fly in From Covid-19 Hot Spots - The Wall Street Journal 

Japan likely to hit COVID-19 herd immunity months after Olympics - researcher - Reuters

China says U.S. military in South China Sea not good for peace - Reuters

Ronald Reagan Quote for the Week

We have every right to dream heroic dreams. Those who say that we're in a time when there are not heroes, they just don't know where to look. You can see heroes every day going in and out of factory gates. Others, a handful in number, produce enough food to feed all of us and then the world beyond. You meet heroes across a counter, and they're on both sides of that counter. There are entrepreneurs with faith in themselves and faith in an idea who create new jobs, new wealth and opportunity. They're individuals and families whose taxes support the government and whose voluntary gifts support church, charity, culture, art, and education. Their patriotism is quiet, but deep. Their values sustain our national life.

  Ronald Reagan First Inaugural Address - January 20, 1981

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Democracy and our Republic

Illustration by Tim O’Brien for TIME

I have been reflecting on the week's activities. President Biden made the following encouraging statement during his Inaugural Address: 

  We have learned again that democracy is precious. Democracy is fragile. And at this hour, my friends, democracy has prevailed. (Politico)

And I am encouraged. Democracy has prevailed. Despite the worst efforts of the unrepentant opposition, the inauguration happened and the will of the majority of the American people was confirmed on a cold, January Wednesday in Washington, D.C.

But there are still forces out there stalking, waiting for their moment. I found a paragraph from an article in Time Magazine which continues on from President Biden's thought:

But only barely. Biden now leads a country divided between Americans who believe in facts and Americans who distrust them, between those who want a multiracial Republic and those who seek to invalidate nonwhite votes, between those with faith in democratic institutions and those who put faith only in Trump. (Time Magazine)

I understand that now there are three strong political forces in the country. The Democrats, the Republicans, and the Cult of Trump.

I know that many people have been calling for a third political party to help balance the partisan fighting between the Democrats and the Republicans--but I am not sure that a party based upon a fervent religious adoration of Trump is a good counterpoint. I know that this statement will incite many of my friends and possibly family--but that is OK.

I point to the words of our President during his inauguration:

That’s democracy. That’s America. The right to dissent peaceably, within the guardrails of our Republic, is perhaps our nation’s greatest strength.Yet hear me clearly: Disagreement must not lead to disunion. (Politico)

And so, we, and I mean all of us, are on a journey. It is a two-year journey, for at that point we will be electing a new House of Representatives and one-third of the Senate. It will be a referendum on the Biden Administration and it will be in our hands to change course if we believe our Union is not on the right path.

But we must remember the starting point, from President Biden's Inaugural Address: 

We face an attack on democracy and on truth.
A raging virus.
Growing inequity.
The sting of systemic racism.
A climate in crisis.
America’s role in the world.
Any one of these would be enough to challenge us in profound ways.
But the fact is we face them all at once, presenting this nation with the gravest of responsibilities.
Now we must step up.
All of us.
It is a time for boldness, for there is so much to do.
And, this is certain.
We will be judged, you and I, for how we resolve the cascading crises of our era.
Will we rise to the occasion?
Will we master this rare and difficult hour?
Will we meet our obligations and pass along a new and better world for our children?

I believe we must and I believe we will.

(Politico)

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD